Sordid by Nikki Sloane Page A

his expression hardened a shade. His evaluating gaze was piercing, and I worried I’d fall apart beneath it. What was he thinking about? I didn’t have a clue what was going on behind those dark eyes.
    “Sit,” he said. “I’ll be right back. I’m going to check on my brother and grab us some drinks.”
    There wasn’t time to answer, not that it was a question. Luka pressed his body into mine, forcing me backward and down to sit on the couch.
    My voice was flustered. “That’s okay, I should probably get back downstairs, too.”
    “Not a chance.” He curled a hand behind my neck and tilted my head up to his as he lowered down into a kiss. “That was just the warm-up, Addison. When I get back, we’ll do it for real.”
    I shuddered, even as my traitorous body responded to him. My nipples tightened at the idea.
    But if I agreed to it, he’d leave, and I could use that opportunity to slip away. The party downstairs was loud and busy, and no one would notice me leaving. I’d probably be halfway back to my dorm before Luka realized what I’d done.
    I attempted a timid smile. He gauged my expression, and looked satisfied when I didn’t protest, indicating I’d stay.
    “Okay, gimme a minute, I’ll be right back.”
    I watched him go, air fisted tight in my lungs. How long did I need to wait to make sure he was safely downstairs and in the kitchen? I metered out my shaky breath, forcing myself to stay calm.
    One breath.
    Another.
    What if I stayed on the couch? What would happen?
    It was the tequila, I was sure. I’d never drink it again, as it clearly made me insane. I had to get up and out of this room before he came back.
    I was sore and rose gingerly.
    My legs moved like they were made of lead. The wicked voice inside me asked if I was sure I wanted to leave, but I squashed it. I put one foot slowly in front of the other, and teetered to the door.
    The hallway was empty. I stumbled on the thick carpet and almost fell into the wall, but was able to pull upright just in time. Christ, the liquor had knocked me on my ass. I was a fool not to eat something before coming to the party, and an even bigger one for doing those shots.
    People congregated at the foot of the stairs, clenching their cups and shouting conversations at each other, oblivious of the slutty schoolgirl at the top, looking down on them. I clutched the wooden banister for added support. My drunk legs and high heels were a deadly combination on the stairs, and I had to focus on my feet as I went down to ensure I didn’t miss a step.
    I was halfway to the bottom when the hairs on the back of my neck stood upright, making me hyperaware someone was watching me. I paused, and glanced up from my feet—
    I’d waited two years to see his irritated expression directed at me, thinking it’d turn me on. Now Luka stood at the base of the steps waiting for me, a cup in each hand and a pissed off look splashed on his face. It didn’t turn me on.
    It filled me with fear.

Chapter
     
    Five
     
     
    Everyone standing around Luka was oblivious , but tension emanated from him and traveled upward in waves at me. I froze on the steps, caught in the act and not sure what to do. Did he want me to come down to him? Should I retreat?
    He took the stairs two at a time and reached me swiftly, but managed not to spill the half-full cups of beer he carried. One was thrust at me and I took it, unable to meet Luka’s searing gaze. His overpowering presence caused me to back up until I was against the wall and the banister dug into my side.
    “Did you get bored?” His tone was flat and his lips right by my ear. I sensed he knew why I fled the room. Somehow he was completely aware of my deception.
    “No, I . . .” I finally dragged my gaze up to match his, and found his eyes furious. “I think maybe I should head home.”
    “Yeah?” He moved in so there was no space left between us. “Having regrets about what we did?”
    “You mean what you did?” I corrected,